Formula E London 2020: Electric racing series returns to capital

Formula E is coming back to London. Following races at Battersea Park in 2015 and 2016, the FIA electric single-seater racing series will make a return to the capital in 2020, on a new circuit taking in London's Royal Docks and the ExCel exhibition centre.

The event will take place on 25-26 July 2020, forming a double-header finale for what will be Formula E's sixth season, and the second using its latest, second-generation cars.

The 2.4km clockwise circuit will incorporate both indoor and outdoor segments, with the cars racing through a section of the ExCel centre's exhibition halls. A total of 23 corners are included in the layout, which also sees the cars racing along the waterfront of the Royal Docks.

Alejandro Agag, the founder and CEO of Formula E, said: “I’m extremely excited to be bringing electric racing back to the UK. Every motorsport series would love to host an event in London – this has been our desire for quite some time now and we’re delighted to have found a new home in the Royal Docks at ExCeL London.

"Formula E coming back to the UK extends beyond pure racing excitement, it’s also a strong message for London to tackle inner-city air pollution by promoting clean technologies and electric sustainable mobility.”

Jeremy Rees, CEO of ExCeL London, added: “It’s an honour to welcome the world’s first ever indoor and outdoor race to ExCeL London and the Royal Docks. Hosting this event, is also closely aligned with our vision to create a more sustainable venue, in the heart of one of the most exciting destinations and best connected cities in the world."

British Formula E competitors reacted positively to the announcements, with Envision Virgin Racing driver Sam Bird commenting: "As a British driver and a previous London E-Prix winner, I’m absolutely delighted to learn that Formula E is once again racing in the capital in season six. To win your home race, in front of your home fans, is one of the most memorable feelings for any racing driver, so to have that opportunity again is a very exciting prospect.”

Jaguar Formula E team principal James Barclay said: “Everyone at Jaguar Racing welcomes the return of London to the Formula E calendar. [Jaguar is] the UK’s largest automotive manufacturer, with a heritage in motorsport, [so] a race in the capital will be a real highlight next season and exciting news for all British motorsport fans.

"Importantly, having a London race will also give our employees the opportunity to see Jaguar race against our competitors on home soil. We relish the opportunity to put on a great show next season.”

For more on Formula E, including our run-down of all this season's teams and drivers, check out our guide to the championship here.